Nix credit card debt

Most credit cards charge 20 to 30 per- cent interest. if you’re short on cash, use a line of credit to pay off your balance. then cut back on spending and focus on paying off that line of credit.

Pay all your bills on time

Just do it.

Ask for an overdraft

Overdraft protection will help you avoid “insufficient funds” charges if your bank account balance briefly slips below zero.

Cancel those cheques

Never take a cash-advance on your credit card or use the cheques some- times included with your statement: hefty interest charges apply as soon as you use either.

Avoid ATM fees

If you use another bank’s ATM or one of those independently owned units you find at convenience stores, it could end up costing you $5 (or more) to withdraw $20. instead, buy something on debit and ask for cash back.

Don’t cover yourself

Decline the extended warranty on purchases. these retailer cash cows almost never work out in your favour.